Coins from America’s past often carry hidden worth, especially those from historic moments. One such coin, the $552K 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle, has become a sought-after treasure for collectors. This $2.50 gold coin is special not just for its rarity, but also for its ties to the California Gold Rush, making it a unique piece of American history. Let’s explore why this coin is so valuable and what makes it stand out among others.
What is the $552K 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle?
The 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle is a rare coin worth much more than its $2.50 face value. When the California Gold Rush began in 1848, samples of the newfound gold were sent to President James K. Polk, who then directed it to the Philadelphia Mint. There, 1,389 Quarter Eagle coins were minted from this gold. Each coin had a small “CAL” stamped on its reverse side, marking it as part of this historical gold rush. This makes each of these coins truly one-of-a-kind.
Why This Coin is Valuable
Coins like the 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle stand out for several reasons:
- Historical Value: Created during the California Gold Rush, these coins symbolize a defining time in American history.
- Unique Marking: The “CAL” stamp on the reverse shows the gold was from California, and this detail makes each coin special.
- Composition: With 90% gold and 10% copper, this coin’s precious metal content also adds to its appeal.
- Low Mintage: Only 1,389 were made, making it extremely rare and desirable among collectors.
- High Auction Prices: Recently, one 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle sold for $552,000 at auction, highlighting its high demand.
How Much are CAL Quarter Eagles Worth?
The 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle is highly valuable, with some examples auctioning for hundreds of thousands of dollars. Here are recent auction prices for this rare coin:
| Auction Price | Coin Condition |
|---|---|
| $552,000 | Mint State 64 |
| $402,500 | Uncirculated |
| $345,000 | Mint Condition |
| $300,000 | High Quality |
These prices show how much collectors are willing to pay for this coin’s rarity and history.
Design Features of the $552K 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle
The 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle has a design that is both classic and symbolic:
- Obverse (Front): Liberty’s profile is surrounded by 13 stars, representing the original states.
- Reverse (Back): An eagle with a shield on its chest holds an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and strength.
- “CAL” Stamp: The CAL marking on the back shows it was made from California gold, making it easily recognizable to collectors.
Each of these coins was stamped by hand, so the position of the “CAL” varies slightly from coin to coin, adding to its charm and uniqueness.
Why Collectors Value the 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle
As the first U.S. coin to commemorate an event, the 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle is a historic piece with high collectible value. With its connection to the Gold Rush and a unique stamp, it is listed among the 100 Greatest U.S. Coins. For collectors, owning one of these coins is like owning a piece of history.
Conclusion
The 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle is more than just a coin—it’s a snapshot of history from the California Gold Rush. From its hand-stamped CAL marking to its gold content and historic significance, this coin has become a true collector’s treasure. With some coins selling for over $500,000, it’s a reminder of the unique blend of history, art, and value that certain coins hold. If you come across one of these, you may just be looking at a piece of American heritage worth a fortune.
FAQ’s
What does “CAL” stand for on the 1848 Quarter Eagle?
The “CAL” marking on the back of the coin indicates it was made with gold from the California Gold Rush of 1848.
How much gold is in a CAL Quarter Eagle?
The coin is 90% gold and 10% copper, making it valuable not only for its rarity but also its material.
Why are CAL Quarter Eagles so expensive?
They are rare, historic, and made from California Gold Rush gold, which increases their value to collectors.